Paraglomeraceae fungi

Paraglomeraceae are a family of fungi within the phylum Glomeromycota. These organisms are not plant pathogens; instead, they are essential beneficial symbionts that form arbuscular mycorrhiza. They establish a mutually beneficial relationship with the roots of the vast majority of terrestrial plants, facilitating nutrient exchange and enhancing the overall resilience of the crop.

The biological function of these fungi centers on the development of arbuscules inside the root cells, which serve as sites for efficient transfer of phosphorus, nitrogen, and other essential minerals from the soil to the host plant. In exchange, the plant provides the fungi with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis, ensuring the continued colonization of the root system.

Various agricultural crops, including cereals, legumes, and horticultural species, host these fungi. By extending the absorptive surface area of roots through an extensive network of extraradical hyphae, Paraglomeraceae help plants mitigate stress caused by low nutrient availability and intermittent drought, effectively acting as natural bio-fertilizers.

Development conditions for these fungi are optimal in well-structured, undisturbed soils. They thrive in environments where organic matter is present and the use of synthetic fungicides is reduced. Soil compaction, excessive tillage, and high-intensity chemical application are known to negatively impact the colonization rate of mycorrhizal fungi, thereby reducing the crop's ability to access native soil nutrients.

Management strategies focus on promoting rather than eliminating these fungi. Producers are encouraged to adopt conservation tillage practices, such as No-Till or reduced tillage, to preserve the fungal mycelial network. Maintaining continuous vegetative cover through crop rotation and the use of cover crops is another effective strategy to sustain the population of Paraglomeraceae, ultimately supporting higher yield stability and reduced reliance on chemical inputs.